Good supplier for T&G ipe>>East Teak Lumber 800 338 5636Cross Ventalation is a Must using this material in your setting,in fact its a good idea using Any material on Any project.The exact same amount of water is going to get thru your project with floor vents or with out them. This kind of decking drains the same way as any other decking thru the gap.

T&G ipe is suitable I use 1x6 material as long as your joists are on 16'' centers and your frame is compltley secure.

Be sure you are understanding this>>>do not try to install outside decking the same way an interior floor is put downInstalling this material is Not a DIY project. There are several learned trade knowladge procedures that must be followed. John Mon

"The porch floor will be 2-4 inches higher than the surrounding flagstone "

This may end up being a trip hazard. A normal step should be 5" to 8" I usually try to make a normal step or a flush transition.

John,

Thank you for your response. You do point out that there are several trade procedures to follow to ensure a successful installation and I was hoping to obtain some of those to apply on my own project. Although I am definitely not a pro, I do have years of home improvement work under my belt (see my rambling post of April 26 that no one understandably cared to respond to it) however I have zero experience from using Ipe.

Direct Questions on T&G Ipe

- If boards not tight then how much space to allow for while installing? How much T does that leave to lock in with the G?
- Butt joints tight or spaced?
- Type/size of screws & pre-drill bit?
- Screw through T or G? (I have seen both recommended here)
- What pitch?
- With Ken and Woodzotic apparently a question mark - Recommended (annual?) treatment to prevent (delay) weathering?

Thanks,

Max

+ + + + + + +

aidan m,

You are absolutely correct  normal step height would be 5-8" and I am concerned with a smaller riser becoming a trip hazard or "toe stubber", however for reasons explained in my lengthy April 26 post, I have limited options. Under the circumstances, do you think it would be better if I went for max available (3-4") or the very minimum (say 1") in combination with grates over a trench drainage system outside side D of the porch?

Thanks,

Max

Change is Change,Money is Money,what sticks to the Bee is what makes the Honey. J.

I think you can pull off a 4" step. The surface material changes, it will be visible.

John,
You have to excuse me, but I am having difficulty applying your May 5 poetry to the very direct advice I was seeking in my same day postÂ
I suppose one interpretation could be that the QUEEN Bee is getting tired of sharing its expertise and therefore sends me a KILLER Bee when all this WORKER Bee was looking for was some simple adviceÂ
:-)

aidan_m

As much as I have stared at my layouts and sketches, I had forgotten the visual impact that the change in material will have. Thanks for pointing it out. A 4" step should be fine.

Max

The advice for T&G ipe is an advanced subject, there is no way I can talk you thru your project over here.

Simple advice is not going to get you thru this install. But if your going on with it, go for it Bro!! J.

Install a small light in the step riser if the front of the porch is dark at night.

If you can find an affordable source for t&g Mahogany, that would be an easier way to get the look you want and be able to DIY. Mahogany is a real pleasure to work with and naturally resistant to decay. Finish it with a high quality penetrating oil and resins finish that will give it a hard surface.